If you’re a gin connoisseur (or drink enough to merit the title) here’s a gin that not only tastes great, but has a charming story behind it.
While Hawthorn’s London Dry Gin has been produced for just over a year, the recipe dates back to World War II when the founder’s grandfather was a naval commander. To rally his troops he used to distill gin to his own recipe and take it to sea (where he famously sank three times and never got his feet wet).
This recipe has been adapted and today uses 100% British wheat along with a secret blend of 10 botanicals, ranging from Sri Lankan nutmeg to Indonesian cassia bark. And in a nod to its nautical history, the Hawthorn’s label has its name spelt out in maritime signal flags – impress your drinking buddies with that titbit.
The result is a smooth, drinkable gin with notes of coriander and spice, a peppery middle, and a strong juniper finish. If you try hard enough you can almost taste the tang of sea salt – good enough to drink on the rocks (excuse the pun).
Get Gin Tasting
Head to Charlotte’s Bistro for gin tastings. Every Monday a different craft producer will take guests through a one-to-one tasting. The events are free to attend, but get there early, as it’s first come first serve!
Lineup:
25 April – Slingsby Gin
2 May – Whitley Neill Gin, hosted by Johnny Neill
9 May – Copperhead Gin
16 May – The Botanist
23 May – Conker Gin
6 June – Top Secret: Sipsmith Event
Gin School | Every Monday from 6.30pm, free
Charlotte’s Bistro | 6 Turnham Green Terrace, Chiswick, London W4 1QP
Charlotte’s Bistro is winner of London Restaurant of the Year 2015 (Good Food Guide) and Best Loved Local 2015 (Time Out Love London Awards)
